Soft Bricks

The world of parent/teacher conferences is an interesting one. Honestly, unless you're a teacher, it's sort of hard to understand this side of the teacher's desk. I will admit, most of my conferences went well, as most of the kids are doing fine. However, there are about 5 who are struggling with some intense stuff that we had to discuss. My mentor, Karen, gives those of us who seek her counsel, information that is often in the form of a soft bricks. Meaning, it's the truth, but packaged very carefully. I felt like I delivered some soft bricks today myself. Karen would be proud actually...

First off, AutisticKid's parent's are coming to grips with his disability. While the chat wasn't easy, it was received well and the parents are open to any ideas I may have for them. That conference was actually easier than I expected it to be. Of course, I prayed all day over that one, as well as the others.

Secondly, AvoidingWorkKid's conference was about what I expected. While the parents are supportive of my ideas, sister was giving excuses for what AvoidingWorkKid has been doing. (Lying, Stealing) Soft bricks were delivered by me, which were accepted by parents, but not sister. My thought bubble in that conference was "If you want your brother to use his disability for an excuse, I have no sympathy. If I had done that, I wouldn't be here now." The beauty of thought bubbles is that you don't actually say what you're thinking. I respect the fact that family isn't there yet. I'm praying though that God will open that door. I don't want this kid to have a crutch at all!

Next, I attended a conference for SafeSeatKid, who is in the safe seat more than he's out. While it was definitely a Soft Brick meeting all the way around, the parent was more receptive than I expected her to be. I was up and ready to leave the meeting early to go to another meeting when God told me to sit. I sat and when I went to excuse myself I said, "Please don't just hear us saying bad stuff about your son. He's a very caring kid (Okay, it was a stretch, but she needed something positive!) who loves others." She started crying as she held my hand. While the meeting was hard, I knew that was the reason God had me there!

Finally, the most touching conference was earlier this afternoon when MizzouKid's Mom and Dad came in. While I talk to her everyday, it was hard for her to see that her child is still struggling. I feel so blessed to be a part of this kid's life. I really do. I just pray that at the next conference, I'll have some good news for her.

Now for the BEST news of the day....I HAVE A THREE DAY WEEKEND!

And...

I'm hosting a mini-women's retreat this weekend! Complete with a trip to the Prophecy Rooms on Sunday!

Woop! Woop!

Life.
Is.
Good.